Playgroups
For more information on Supported or Community based playgroups please contact the Playgroup Team on 9240 2240 or via email at playgroups@moreland.vic.gov.au.
We will update you when our normal services returns.
Playgroups and how to join one
Throughout Merri-bek, there ae a number of playgroups which provide parents and caregivers with the opportunity to meet new people, gain support and exchange parenting ideas. The playgroups give babies, toddlers and preschoolers the chance to socialise as they play and learn together.
In Merri-bek, our playgroups are all about fund and friendship.
Joining a playgroup
Want to join a playgroup? Use the Playgroup Victoria website to find a playgroup in Merri-bek.
You can also contact your Maternal and Child Health Nurse for new parent groups or playgroups in your area.
Starting a playgroup
To start your own playgroup, all you need is a couple of friends and a place to meet.
There are many local venues that could be a great spot for a playgroup, including:
schools, churches, neighbourhood houses, kindergartens, community centres and other local community groups that have space for you to use.
For a small fee per family per year, membership to Playgroup Victoria entitles your playgroup to public and personal liability insurance and a range of other support services. Multicultural resources are also available.
Find out more about how to start a playgroup on the Playgroup Victoria website.
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Supported playgroup
We offer a number of supported playgroup sessions that are led by an experienced and trained facilitators. These sessions are free to attend, and will help parents to improve their child's learning and development while also building parent confidence.
We also offer SmallTalk, which is a program that runs as part of our supported playgroups. SmallTalk gives parents and carers tips and ideas on how to help their child with learning and development at home. Each week SmallTalk covers a different topic.
Are you eligible for a supported playgroup session?
To attend a free supported playgroup session families must:
- hold a Health Care Card (from Centrelink) or equivalent visa
- identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Straight Islander
- be referred from Child FIRST, Child Protection or Enhanced Maternal Child Health
If you are interested in Supported Playgroup contact Council's Playgroup Team:
- phone 9240 2455
- Email Council's Playgroup Team